Mini unveils new Paceman concept car before Detroit Auto Show 12/22/2010
Mini has unveiled the Paceman, its newest sports activity coupe concept car, in advance of the Detroit Auto Show next month.
According to the New York Times, the two-door Paceman is based on its four-door Mini Countryman counterpart. The two models share a chassis, but the Paceman features improved air intake and styling that emphasizes the horizontal apsect of the car, replacing the Countryman's more vertically oriented design. The windows, for example, appear to wrap all the way around the vehicle, providing visual horizontal continuity and "suspending" the roof over the car's body.
The Paceman's 1.6-liter engine is the most powerful powertrain offered by the brand, producing 211 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque.
The car was also designed with an emphasis on handling and ride quality. MacPherson spring struts in the front combine with a multilink rear axle borrowed from parent company BMW to boost performance in both the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions of the car.
The Paceman will be put on display at the Detroit Auto Show in January, where Mini will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the reintroduction of the brand.